How to Plan Udawalawe National Park Safari Itinerary in 2025

If you’re planning a visit to Sri Lanka’s famous elephant sanctuary, this Udawalawe National Park Safari Itinerary will help you make the most of your day. Udawalawe is well known for its large herds of wild elephants and diverse wildlife, but without a clear plan, it can be tricky to fit everything in.

This one day itinerary breaks down the best start times, safari duration, must visit spots, and rest breaks, all designed to give you a smooth, unforgettable safari experience.

Why choose Udawalawe safari?

Udawalawe National Park is one of the easiest and most rewarding wildlife parks to visit in Sri Lanka, especially if you’re short on time. Unlike larger parks that require multiple days to explore, Udawalawe is compact yet full of life. It’s best known for its large elephant population, making sightings almost guaranteed, even on a short safari.

The park is also very accessible. Whether you’re coming from the south coast, Ella, or the Hill Country, travel times are manageable, and safari operators are easy to book. Jeep safaris are well organised and don’t require advance permits, which means you can plan your trip quickly without hassle.

If you’re wondering how to reach Udawalawe National Park, you can check out our updated guide on getting there.

If you’re looking for a no stress, safari day trip for wildlife experience with high chances of seeing elephants and other animals in their natural habitat, Udawalawe is the perfect choice.

Ideal Safari Day at a Glance

5:30 AM (Wake Up and Get Ready)

Start your day early, really early. Wildlife in Udawalawe is most active in the cool morning hours, and safari jeeps often begin entering the park right at opening time, around 6:00 AM. To get the best experience, aim to wake up by 5:30 AM, giving yourself enough time to freshen up, grab a light snack, and prepare for the adventure.

Tips to prepare:

• Wear light, breathable clothing in neutral colours (avoid bright shades).
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as it can get sunny even early in the day.
• Don’t forget your camera or binoculars, elephants and birds are often close, but sometimes they’re just out of reach.
• Pack a bottle of water and a quick snack if your accommodation doesn’t offer an early breakfast.
• If you’re not staying right near the park entrance, pre arrange your jeep safari with pickup included. Most operators offer this service.

Getting an early start means you’ll beat the heat, avoid the crowds, and catch animals as they roam freely after the night’s cool air.

6:00 AM (Morning Safari Begins)

At 6:00 AM, Udawalawe National Park opens its gates, and this is when your adventure truly begins. Morning safaris are the best time to see animals when they’re most active, especially elephants heading to waterholes and open grasslands. The golden morning light also makes for beautiful photography.

Most safari tours last about 04 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including grasslands, forest patches, and the banks of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

What animals might you see:

If you want to learn more about the animals in Udawalawe National Park, check out our latest post here.

Your driver/guide will help track animals and stop for photo opportunities. Some guides are also great at spotting hidden wildlife and sharing interesting facts about the animals and the park.

Tips for this part of the day:

• Sit on the left side of the jeep to get better lighting for morning photos.
• Keep quiet and alert, sudden noises can scare away animals.
• Don’t forget to respect the park rules and avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife.

By the end of the morning safari, you’ll likely have seen plenty of animals and enjoyed the fresh air and calm of the wild.

10:00 AM (Breakfast Stop)

After an exciting morning safari, it’s time to recharge. By 10:00 AM, most jeeps return to the park entrance or nearby accommodations, and your stomach is probably ready for a proper meal.

If you’ve booked your safari through your guesthouse or hotel, they may offer a post-safari breakfast as part of your stay. If not, there are a few local cafés and restaurants near the park entrance where you can enjoy a simple Sri Lankan or Western-style breakfast.

Recommended options:

• Local rice and curry or string hoppers for a traditional start
• Eggs, toast, fruit, and tea/coffee for something lighter
• Fresh juices or king coconut water to rehydrate

Quick tip:

Some travellers like to carry a light snack (like bananas or biscuits) during the safari, especially if skipping an early breakfast.

Use this time not only to eat but also to rest, review your photos, and refresh before heading to your next activity, the Elephant Transit Home.

10:30 AM (Visit Elephant Transit Home)

Just a short drive from the park entrance, the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is a must-visit, especially if you love elephants. Unlike other elephant attractions, this facility focuses on rescue and rehabilitation, providing care for orphaned baby elephants until they are strong enough to return to the wild.

The best time to visit is around 10:30 AM, just before the 10:30 AM feeding session, when young elephants come out to drink milk and socialise. Visitors watch from a respectful distance, ensuring the elephants stay wild and untrained, which is exactly the goal here.

What to expect:

• A chance to see 30 – 40 young elephants up close
• A short visitor centre display explaining their work
• A unique and ethical elephant experience, very different from elephant rides or performances

Entrance Fee

USD 7.00 with Tax for foreigners (subject to change)

Why visit:

This is a rare opportunity to support real conservation while still enjoying an up close view of elephants. Many travellers say it’s a highlight of their Udawalawe trip.

Noon (Lunch and Midday Rest)

By midday, the heat in Udawalawe can be intense, and animal activity in the park slows down. This is the perfect time to take a break, enjoy a relaxed lunch, and recharge before your afternoon plans.

You can have lunch at your accommodation, a local guesthouse, or one of the small roadside restaurants near the park. Most offer simple, tasty Sri Lankan meals like rice and curry, fried rice, or kotthu roti. If you prefer Western options, some safari lodges have menus with sandwiches, pasta, or wraps.

Tips for your midday break:

• Stay hydrated, drink lots of water or king coconut.
• Find shade or air conditioning to cool off.
• Avoid planning outdoor activities during this time (12 PM – 04 PM), as it’s the hottest part of the day.
• If you’re continuing your journey later, this is also a good time to pack up or arrange transport.

Taking a proper rest helps you enjoy the evening hours more, whether you choose a peaceful spot to watch the sunset.

04:00 PM (Reservoir Visit)

Take a relaxing trip to the Udawalawe Reservoir. This large water body is surrounded by peaceful nature and offers stunning sunset views. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching, and if you’re lucky, you might see animals coming to drink.

Photography tip: The golden hour lighting here is perfect for landscape and reflection shots.

05:00 PM (Wrap Up and Travel Tips)

As your unforgettable day at Udawalawe comes to an end, it’s time to head back to your hotel or continue your journey to your next destination. Most safari operators offer drop offs to nearby towns or your accommodation, making your trip hassle free.

Some final tips:

• Book your jeep safari and transport in advance to avoid last minute stress, especially during peak seasons.
• Carry some cash for entrance fees, tips, and small purchases — ATMs are limited near the park.
• Keep your camera charged and ready for last minute wildlife sightings.
• Respect the park rules and wildlife at all times, remember, you’re a visitor in their home.

If you’re tired after the day’s adventures, many nearby guesthouses and lodges offer comfortable stays so you can rest and prepare for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Udawalawe Safari